Batter Up — it is Opening Day of Baseball Season! All 30 Major League Baseball teams will play on Opening Day, the earliest start to a regular season in history, and unlike years past, every team will begin on the same day (which hasn’t happened since 1968). We found an online schedule for all 30 MLB teams in case you have time today to catch a game on TV. Spring is a rebirth of many things and a new youth sports season is one.
Our kids got their gloves out and threw in the driveway because despite the snow melting (almost all), mud season is upon us so the fields will have to wait 🙁 In the meantime, focus on getting into condition for your town’s Opening Day: start batting indoors or at the Little League field batting cages.
It is called America’s Game, so everyone should play, right? The Challenger Division was created in Bristol by the late Ed Beardsley in 1986 and adapted as a separate division of Little League Baseball in 1989. It enables children with special needs to enjoy America’s national pastime. Today more than 30,000 children participate in more than 900 Challenger Divisions worldwide. Find a Challenger league near you – this lists all Little League registered teams. Darien, Norwalk, Simsbury, and Waterford District 10 will have their Opening Day 2019 this month. Or start one yourself and spread the word with us!
In addition, there is The Miracle League of CT where “Every Child Deserves A Chance To Play.” They are providing recreational and sporting opportunities for children with physical and cognitive challenges to participate in baseball at accessible facilities.
A new season marks growth in kids’ bodies so new equipment is usually needed. Given how quickly they grow and the skyrocketing expense, try a swap with your local Little League, neighbors, or online with swapmesports.com. In addition, do not forget consignment options at stores like Play It Again Sports in West Hartford and Southington. Let us know of others near you and we will add them to our list! For new equipment in Central Connecticut, or any Dick’s – they offer great discounts through their Community Program coupons, just ask.
Along with sending our children back onto their field of dreams comes the opportunity for parents to get involved. Your local youth sports league is always looking for volunteers. If coaching is not a good fit, ask about helping with equipment, working in the snack shack, becoming a team parent, or taking action photos to give to the players at the end of the season.
Your child will spend hours this spring having fun and trying to make you proud. Your job is to use good behavior on the sidelines and in the bleachers. Do your part to make them equally as proud.
